Medicare & Medigap
Medicare Plan G vs Plan F: Which Medigap Is Better?
NHQC Editorial Team · Last updated April 14, 2026
The Only Real Difference
Plan F pays your annual Part B deductible; Plan G doesn't. That's the entire coverage difference. Yet Plan F typically costs $250–$400/year more — often far exceeding the deductible savings.
Why Was Plan F Closed?
MACRA 2015 ended first-dollar Medigap coverage for new Medicare enrollees, believing it encouraged overuse. People who were eligible before Jan 1, 2020 can keep or newly buy Plan F; everyone else buys Plan G.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical, legal, or financial advice. NHQualityCampaign.org is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I switch from Plan F to Plan G?+
Often yes. Run the math: if your Plan F premium is more than $240/year higher than Plan G, switch if you can pass underwriting.
Is Plan F going away?+
No — existing Plan F policies continue. It is just closed to new eligibles.
What about High-Deductible Plan G?+
HD Plan G has very low premiums but requires you to meet a $2,800 deductible (2024) before full coverage kicks in.
Which has the lowest lifetime cost?+
For most, Plan G — because premium savings typically exceed the $240 deductible each year.
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